Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a pervasive global health challenge. Unlike infectious diseases, NCDs are chronic and can persist for extended periods, often throughout a person's lifetime if not treated promptly. This shift from communicable to non-communicable ailments is reflective of changing lifestyles, earning NCDs the moniker of "Lifestyle diseases." Moreover, there is a potential for these conditions to be inherited from older generations.

According to SNM Hospital, Leh data there has been a noticeable increase in NCD cases. The statistics reveal a shift in patient demographics, with 2310 cases in (April 2022-March 2023) to 2452 cases in April–November 2023).

Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure are frequently underestimated in Ladakh. Despite a rise in cases, there is a tendency for people to neglect and ignore them, exacerbating the associated risks. It's crucial to recognize that, although NCDs can be serious, they are manageable and even curable with timely and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Lotus Gailson, a distinguished Cardiologist, emphasises, "Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are essentially human-made conditions, arising from our own actions. These include diabetes, blood pressure issues, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, heart diseases, and even road traffic accidents."

He expresses concern about the apparent negligence towards NCDs among Ladakhis, despite a noticeable increase in the percentage of NCD patients over time. Dr. Gailson warns, "Diabetics who go untreated for an extended period face an elevated risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure."
He further highlights the profound impact of lifestyle on diabetes, stating, "Diabetes is undeniably a lifestyle disease, intricately linked to our dietary choices and utilization of food. Our shift from an agricultural to a sedentary lifestyle plays a pivotal role. The food we consume must align with our body's digestive capabilities, a challenge given the evolving nature of our daily routines.

He elaborates on the risk factors contributing to diabetes, stating, "Factors such as the consumption of junk food at a young age, obesity or being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and disproportionate food intake leading to the conversion into fats are all significant contributors."

In Ladakh, where approximately 30-40% of the population is affected by high blood pressure, lifestyle factors such as the consumption of processed or canned food, stress, and a high intake of salt contribute to elevated blood pressure levels. Dr. Gailson emphasises the prevalence of heart attacks, citing risk factors like smoking, alcoholism, pre-existing diabetes, stress, hypertension, obesity, excessive lipids, and a family history of heart disease.

He highlights the need for immediate medical attention during episodes of acute heart disease, characterized by severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Dr. Gailson explains the shared risk factors for strokes and heart attacks, emphasizing the importance of timely treatment for both types.

Dr. Lotus emphasises, "India is in a developing phase, currently undergoing a transition where many are unaware of the significance of consuming nutritious food, and a substantial portion of the population is leading a sedentary lifestyle. Unlike earlier times when labor-intensive agricultural practices maintained a balance in nutritional utilization, today's sedentary lifestyles contribute to reduced physical exertion, leading to the conversion of excess calories into fats and resulting in obesity."

In Ladakh, wellness centers and peripheral facilities are equipped with basic test kits for assessing sugar levels, lipids, blood pressure, and more. NCD (Non-Communicable Disease) awareness programs are actively conducted to screen individuals aged 18 and above, considering that a significant portion of the population remains unaware of these diseases. SNM Hospital is also planning to establish a cathlab in the coming years, intending to enhance capabilities for heart surgeries.

Dr. Lotus underscores that NCDs are indeed man-made diseases, and reducing risk factors becomes imperative to prevent their occurrence. The proactive approach of conducting screenings and establishing specialized facilities demonstrates a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by these lifestyle-related diseases.